Solar panels in Tonbridge
187 applications since 2020. 94 approved and 11 refused. Refused: about 1 in 10 here, about 1 in 10 across the councils we cover.
Last updated 8 November 2026.
Without planning permission
- On a pitched roof, no more than 0.2 m proud of the slope and no higher than the highest part of the roof, chimneys aside
- On a flat roof, no more than 0.6 m above the highest part of the roof, chimneys aside
- On a wall, no more than 0.2 m out if it abuts a road, 0.4 m otherwise
- Not on a listed house
- Plug-in panels not on a wooden wall or timber cladding
- Sited to keep the effect on the look of the house and the area as small as possible
England, houses only. Flats, listed buildings, conservation areas and Article 4 directions change this. The full rules.
Year by year
| Year | Applications | Approved | Refused |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 32 | 16 | 1 |
| 2025 | 35 | 17 | 1 |
| 2024 | 27 | 16 | 3 |
| 2023 | 40 | 13 | 2 |
| 2022 | 36 | 22 | 2 |
| 2021 | 14 | 9 | 1 |
| 2020 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
Neighbouring councils
| Council | Approved | Refused | How often |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gravesham | 76 | 19 | about 1 in 5 |
| Medway | 110 | 12 | about 1 in 10 |
| Tunbridge Wells | 234 | 6 | about 1 in 40 |